We are told by Alistair Darling, government spokesman on transport, that the solution to the present petrol price rise is to increase the supply of oil.

Applying some basic economic theory, the other option is to reduce demand. Making one less private car journey each week would be enough.

That would also have the benefit of improving the health of our children, improving the quality of life of those without a car and tackling climate change.

For some, exploring a safe cycle route to school or the local park may even change our perceptions of how much we "depend" on the car.

The Chancellor should earmark all the increase in duty to fund cheaper bus fares.

Coun A D'Agorne,

Green Party,

Broadway West, York.

Updated: 09:56 Friday, June 04, 2004